The use of home security technology by survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence: an exploratory study

Millions of Americans experience intimate partner and sexual violence each year. Research notes that abusers often use technology to facilitate power-based violence and abuse through stalking, impersonating, monitoring, isolating, and exerting control over victims. However, little is known about the role home security technology, specifically, can play in protecting and empowering survivors. To fill this gap, this exploratory research uses semi-structured interviews with service providers and survivors to better understand the use of home security technology for survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence. The data illustrate that this technology has the potential to increase survivors’ safety and well-being, but several concerns and challenges must be addressed. Implications for the use of home security technology for survivors and recommendations for addressing possible barriers are discussed.